Pea Gravel Calculator
Find out how much pea gravel you need for a path, patio or garden bed, in cubic yards, tons and cost. The calculator is set up for pea gravel, with a depth and weight to match.
What makes pea gravel different
Pea gravel is small, smooth, rounded stone, often around the size of a pea. It feels comfortable underfoot, drains well and comes in natural colors, which is why it is popular for paths, patios, dog runs and decorative borders. Because the stones are round they do not lock together the way crushed stone does, so the layer is usually thinner than a gravel base and needs a firm edge to hold it.
The volume calculation is the same as for any gravel: area times depth. This page changes the starting values to suit pea gravel. If you want the general version, use the gravel calculator.
How deep should pea gravel be?
Suppliers and landscaping guides commonly suggest around 2 to 3 inches for walkways and patios, with a thin base of crushed stone and landscape fabric underneath. Many guides suggest digging out roughly 4 to 6 inches in total to leave room for the base and the pea gravel. These are common starting points, not rules, so check them against your soil and the product guidance.
| Layer | Common depth |
|---|---|
| Pea gravel surface | 2 to 3 inches |
| Crushed stone base (optional) | 1 to 2 inches |
| Total dig depth | about 4 to 6 inches |
How far does a ton go?
At 1.35 tons per cubic yard, one ton is about 20 cubic feet. That covers roughly:
| Depth | Area per ton |
|---|---|
| 2 inches | 120 sq ft |
| 3 inches | 80 sq ft |
Heavier or damper pea gravel covers a little less per ton.
Worked example
A garden path 30 ft long and 3 ft wide, with pea gravel 2 inches deep, 10 percent extra and a weight of 1.35 tons per cubic yard.
- Area: 30 × 3 = 90 sq ft
- Volume: 90 × (2 ÷ 12) = 15.0 cu ft, which is 0.56 cu yd
- With 10 percent extra: 0.61 cu yd
- Weight: 0.61 × 1.35 = 0.83 tons
Pea gravel is often delivered by the ton or sold in bags for small jobs, so check how your supplier sells it before ordering.
Questions
How much does a cubic yard of pea gravel weigh?
Roughly 2,700 to 3,000 pounds, which is 1.35 to 1.5 tons, depending on the stone size and how damp it is. The calculator starts at 1.35 tons per cubic yard. If your supplier quotes a different weight, type it into the density box.
Do I need a base layer under pea gravel?
Often yes. Pea gravel is small and round, so on its own it can sink into soft soil and mix with it. Common guidance is a layer of crushed stone underneath, around 1 to 2 inches, with landscape fabric between the two. Ask your supplier what suits your ground.
Is pea gravel good for a driveway?
It tends to shift and spread under tires, because the stones are round and do not lock together. Many people use angular crushed stone for driveways instead. Pea gravel suits paths, borders, patios and decorative beds better.
Why does pea gravel move underfoot?
The stones are smooth and rounded, so they roll over each other instead of locking in place. A firm edging along the sides, and keeping the layer to around 2 to 3 inches, helps keep it in place.
How do I measure a curved path?
Split it into a few straight rectangles and use Add another area for each. If the path is a uniform width, you can also measure its center line for the length. A rough fit is fine, since you add an extra allowance.